July 22, 2021
Major Heat or Dà Shǔ (Chinese: 大暑 ) is the twelfth of the 24 traditional Chinese solar terms and the last node of summer. It marks the hottest time of the year in most parts of China. Crops grow most rapidly, fireflies appear, soil becomes more humid, and heavy thunderstorms arrive. Here in southern California, despite the current brief respite from the season’s most sweltering weather, the end of July looks to another wave of extreme heat and high temperatures.
Here are some useful health cultivation tips for Major Heat (Dà Shǔ):
1. The focus of heath cultivation in this season is on “Clearing” (清 Qing ). These include:
a. Clearing Heat from the body.
b. Clearing the Heart – heat injures the ‘Heart Qi’, and in addition to clearing heat, it is important to nourish the Heart to achieve optimal mind-body balance.
c. Clearing Excesses such as Dampness, and Stagnation from the body.
2. During this time of the year, it is common TCM practice in traditional as well as contemporary China to ‘treat winter disease in the summer’ (冬病夏治 Dong Bing Xia Zhi). Such preventive ‘treatment’ measures may include taking a customized herbal formula, a series of acupuncture treatments, or the practice of Sanfu Tie (三伏贴), which involves the placement of herbal patches on select acupuncture points on the back. Sanfu Tie is believed to be particularly useful in preventing bronchial asthma, bronchitis, nasal allergies and other ‘winter ailments.
3. Eat light. Avoid oily and spicy food, and heavy meals. Avoid cold and raw food as these will further damage the body’s Qi. Adequate hydration cannot be over emphasized.
4. The heat during this time of year can weaken the body’s Qi, and it is more important than ever to find balance with your environment. Make sure you have adequate sleep and rest. Avoid strenuous physical activities, especially if these are outdoor. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Consider getting an acupuncture treatment or an herbal formula to boost and optimize your body’s Qi.
For more information on seasonal health cultivation, schedule an appointment with one of our student interns or licensed practitioners at the Yo San University Blount Community Clinic. Tele-health consultations are also offered by our experienced senior practitioners. Call today. 310.577.3006.